.43 Mauser

.43 Mauser

The .43 Mauser, also known as the 11.15×60mmR, is a black powder rifle cartridge developed in the 1870s for use in the Mauser Model 1871 rifle. As Germany’s first adopted cartridge-firing service round, it marked a significant evolution in military firearm design. Featuring a rimmed, bottleneck case and firing a heavy 370–400 grain lead bullet, the .43 Mauser was originally loaded with 77–82 grains of black powder, producing a muzzle velocity of approximately 1,400 fps.

This cartridge saw widespread use throughout the late 19th century, not only in the German military but also in various colonial conflicts and with civilian hunters. Due to its age, modern reloading of the .43 Mauser is approached with caution and typically done for antique rifles in good working condition. Many reloaders use black powder or reduced smokeless loads to safely replicate the original performance characteristics.

Reloading Notes:

• Bullet diameter: ~.446" to .448" depending on bore size; slugging the barrel is essential.
• Powder: Traditional black powder charges range from 70–82 grains (FFg or FFFg), though smokeless loads can use IMR-4198 or SR-4759 in very reduced charges. Always cross-reference with verified load data sources.
• Brass: Available from specialty suppliers or reformed from other large rimmed cases. May require fire-forming.
• Primers: Large rifle primers (standard or magnum depending on powder used).

Performance: When properly loaded, the .43 Mauser offers mild recoil, decent accuracy from vintage rifles, and sufficient power for medium game. Muzzle energy typically ranges between 1,200–1,500 ft-lbs, depending on powder and bullet weight.

While modern commercial ammunition is no longer commonly manufactured, the .43 Mauser remains popular among black powder cartridge enthusiasts and collectors of historical rifles. Care should always be taken to match loads to the condition and strength of the specific rifle.

Source: General cartridge history, black powder reloading texts, and Handloader magazine archives.